Using text messages to help safely store and dispose of unused prescription opioids

Development and Pilot Randomized Control Trial of a Text Message Intervention to Facilitate Secure Storage and Disposal of Prescription Opioids to Prevent Diversion and Misuse

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · WAKE FOREST UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES · NIH-10893197

This study is looking for ways to help people safely store and get rid of leftover prescription opioids at home by sending friendly text message reminders that encourage good habits.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorWAKE FOREST UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES (nih funded)
Locations1 site (WINSTON-SALEM, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10893197 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research aims to tackle the issue of unused prescription opioids that often remain in homes, posing a risk for misuse. By developing a series of persuasive text message reminders, the study seeks to encourage patients to securely store and properly dispose of their unused opioid medications. The approach combines communication strategies with health behavior theories to create an effective intervention. Participants will receive tailored messages designed to promote safe practices regarding opioid storage and disposal.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have been prescribed opioid medications and may have unused prescriptions at home.

Not a fit: Patients who do not use or have never been prescribed opioid medications are unlikely to benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the availability of unused prescription opioids in homes, thereby decreasing the risk of misuse and associated health issues.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that text message interventions can effectively influence health behaviors, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

WINSTON-SALEM, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.